My head was about to burst with the commercial noise of the holiday seasons. I had only one nerve left and someone was standing on it. The whirl of activities was keeping me in a spin.

Then, by chance I came across a small flier announcing a holiday program, at our local Northwest Church, called “A Silent Night”. I thought it would be nice to check out this service just to see what it was like; lots of group singing of traditional Christmas songs, a nativity scene, perhaps cookies and hot apple cider.

Well, The Bearded One and I ever so surprised. We entered into a warm room lighted by a multitude of candles. There were large three-dimensional stars hung from the high ceiling, each with a small light inside. The seating was arranged to face a small choir and group of musicians. Muted conversation came from people viewing art work displayed on the walls. Leader Kent Landrum nodded a welcome to people arriving as he tweaked on the sound equipment.

Promptly on time, it was quietly announced the next hour would be devoted to music, song, and poetry provided by the assembled groups while we were invited to join in; sing along, meditate, clear our minds, or just relax and enjoy. After an hour, the music program lead by Jeff Berryman softly faded and with a “thank you all for coming”, it was all over… way too soon.

This was a truly uplifting and much needed experience. I am sure we will be checking out more of what Northwest Church offers.

An after thought was that Jesus would have felt at home experiencing this “Silent Night”.